Willie "Chico" Nelson, a former Ohio State defensive captain that played from 1990-93, passed away Tuesday in Columbus, Ohio. Eleven Warriors confirmed the news with Franklin County coroner Dr. Anahi Ortiz. An autopsy to determine cause of death will be conducted Wednesday.
A three-year starter for the Silver Bullets, Nelson was hailed as an "undisputed leader" of the secondary before his senior season. Capable of playing either safety spot and known as a punisher, he also possessed excellent coverage skills.
The 1993 Ohio State media guide listed his hobbies to include listening to jazz and that the Sarasota, Florida native considered himself a Chinese food "buff."
Nelson finished his Buckeye career with 198 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and seven interceptions. Eddie George thanked him during his 2011 College Fooball Hall of Fame introduction speech as one of the players that helped forge him into the 1995 Heisman Trophy winner.
Former Ohio State teammates reacted to news as it spread Tuesday afternoon:
So sad to hear the news about Chico Nelson. I was just with him at an event in Sarasota last week. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/N4XIoKZWTW
— robert smith (@Robert26Smith) May 17, 2016
Absolutely unreal. Smile could light up any room. Will miss you brother. #RIPChico #13 #hammer
— Matt Finkes (@MattFinkes) May 17, 2016
Born Christmas 1969, Nelson was 46.
